Portsmouth Island Adventures

Attraction near Ocracoke

(26)

Ocracoke, NC

About

Portsmouth Island Adventures runs from the Berkeley Marina docks on Irvin Garrish Highway in Ocracoke village, ferrying visitors across Ocracoke Inlet to Portsmouth Island — the abandoned village at the north end of Cape Lookout National Seashore, across the inlet from Ocracoke itself. Portsmouth was a busy shipping port through the 1800s before storms, a shifting channel, and the decline of sail-era shipping emptied it out; the last two year-round residents left in 1971, and the National Park Service now maintains the village's weathered houses, church, and post office as a preserved ghost town.

Departs from the Berkeley Marina Docks, 410 Irvin Garrish Hwy, Ocracoke, NC 27960
Reservations required — call ahead to confirm the day's schedule
(252) 928-4484

Because Portsmouth Island has no paved roads, exploring beyond the historic village core typically means walking or riding by ATV to reach the more remote sound-side and ocean-side beaches — bring water, sunscreen, and bug spray, since there's no store or shade once you're off the boat.

Reviews (26)

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4.9

26 reviews

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Randy Overton

4 years ago

Wade was our guy to take us to Portsmouth Island. Island was great for shelling, as my wife collects. Only 8 of us that trip on island. Wade is very knowledgeable on the area.

Christine Loveland

5 months ago

Mr Austin is a knowledgeable seaman and historian, we took a trip with him April 22, , 2026 and enjoyed the ride, shelling was amazing, this is a treasure to be had on Okracoke!!

Lauren Elizabeth

a year ago

10 stars !! Absolutely an amazing adventure we have been coming to ocracoke as a family for over 25 years and my mom n dad for over 50 ! Never have gone to portsmouth Absolutely a well worth it visit. The captain is the nicest guy and was very knowledgeable about the island. We will absolutely be doing this from now on :) !

1Beagleluvr

a year ago

Such a wonderful! day! Donald is a great guide and we always love hearing about the local history. He saved the day with bug suits!! Don't turn them down if you go to the village! Those bugs are hungry!!!

Lauren Style

7 years ago

My husband and 6 year old went out for an afternoon tour today and it was THE BEST time! We’ve taken other tours at different beaches around SC and NC and this tour was by far the coolest and most fun! Ross our guide was so nice and we found so many cool shells. The bugs were not bad at all. You won’t regret spending money on this tour! Do it!